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Finding an Ottawa Roommate

A great was to facilitate a smooth integration, and understand the culture Ottawa, is by choosing to live with a roommate, instead of living solo in a home or apartment. In most situations, each roommate shares communal spaces, including kitchens, bathrooms and living rooms, but each has their own private bedroom. Roommates agree on how bills for rent costs, heating, water, and other needs like food are shared. In addition to cultural immersion, having a roommate can help cut costs when you arrive in your new city. We understand that living with someone who starts out as a stranger can be a scary or intimidating prospect, but we’re here to help you discover the best ways to find, choose, and enjoy living with an Ottawa Roommate.

Getting Started

Before you begin your roommate search, take some time to think about what kind of roommate situation would suit you best. Make a list, so you know exactly what you are looking for. What characteristics are most important to you? How many roommates do you want? Would you be happiest living with someone who is quiet, and has a regular nine-to-five work schedule, or would you like to live with someone who enjoys social gatherings like dinner parties or game nights? Are cleanliness and tidiness a priority? Maybe you would prefer to live with a vegetarian, or somebody with no pets. Perhaps you would prefer living with someone the same gender or general age group as you. Some people prefer to live with someone who will become a close friend and spend time together, cooking or just talking and hanging out, while others may prefer less closeness and interaction. While living with a roommate always involves a level of compromise but understanding your interests is the first step in finding a great match.

Finding Ottawa Roommate Candidates

If you have friends or family already living in Ottawa, it’s a good idea to ask them for suggestions – perhaps they know people who are looking for someone to live with. If someone you trust can vouch for a potential Ottawa roommate, you may be more likely to find a good fit. If you don’t have anyone you can ask for tips, there are plenty of online websites where people looking for roommates advertise. Be sure to check out Craigslist and Kijiji, as well as easyroomate. On these websites, you have the option to search for people who already have apartments, and are looking for a roommate, or you can make your own listing that advertises your interest in finding an Ottawa roommate. If you choose the latter, be sure to include information about rental costs, the setup of the apartment, details about the available room, and a bit about what kind of roommate you would prefer.

When meeting a potential Ottawa Roommate

Now that you have begun to connect potential Ottawa Roommate, you should meet them before making any decisions. If you are planning to move into someone else’s apartment, it’s best to also see the space first. This is a great time to sit down with the person and have a conversation with them. Remember, that first impression matter. How does this person make you feel? Comfortable? Nervous? Was the experience of meeting them enjoyable? Be sure to discuss all the points you made when thinking about your ideal roommate. Ask them about their living behaviors and habits. You can also discuss matters like costs and apartment upkeep. While you certainly should not settle on the first option that comes along, remember that some level of flexibility will likely be necessary.